Moving Tribute Reaches Heartland
Moving Tribute Reaches Heartland Save Email Print
Salute to Vietnam veterans
Posted: 4:57 PM Jun 19, 2008
Last Updated: 4:57 PM Jun 19, 2008

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For many people, especially veterans, a visit the Vietnam War Memorial is an emotional experience. A smaller version of the wall of names is now on tour in the heartland.

A short ceremony marked the opening of the moving wall in Elkhorn. It's a half-size replica of the memorial in Washington D.C.

Veteran Roger Dill says, "I just don't think that Vietnam veterans were treated very well. And I think this is a way to show some respect for those that served our country and gave their lives and gave us the country we have today."

The memorial includes more than 58,000 names of those who died during the Vietnam war. It's a moving tribute that moves different people in different ways.

Veteran Mike Heilig says, "It's very moving. It takes us back to those days when these people were dying. And you knew them. And they were dying in Vietnam."

Bennington's Al Tanner says, "I was young during the Vietnam war. And my second cousin James died in the war. But I remember the anticipation -- my family watching the TV every day to see if his name was going to come up."

Veterans and volunteers helped assemble the 250 foot black wall Thursday morning. It will remain open for viewing around the clock until noon on Monday with volunteers on hand at all times to help visitors find specific names.

Veteran John Schniedermeier says, "I still have to swallow. And several times I even have to turn back because it's getting close to tears coming, you know."

Organizer Jon Reichmuth says, "It's a simple black wall. But as you approach and realize that each line is a person who lost their life, it becomes very humbling."

The names of 395 Nebraskans are listed on the moving wall. It's on display at the Reichmuth Funeral Home in Elkhorn at 219th and Maple.

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Posted by: Rosemary on Jun 22, 2008 at 09:44 AM
I wish I could have tell how I felt during early to mid 70s. Stationed at March AFB, CA. I was just young military member in Air Force. I could not tell anyone what I did, in fear of being beaten or ridicule. I made it and it wasn't until 1980s I told what my job was. I felt certain amount of relief and pride. I was Air Force member and I was meant to be this. Now retired, I sport my baseball cap with Retired Air Force. This is where I want to be in my life.

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